INTERVIEW: Amanda Freeman Talks Stretch*d And SLT, The Benefits Of Assisted Stretching, And More

Pre or post workout, recovery might not be on top of one’s mind, but Stretch*d wants that to change. The customized stretch experience will be at EHP Resort & Marina and SoulCycle’s The Barn this summer, as well as available for Hamptons in-home and poolside services.

We chatted with Amanda Freeman, Stretch*d Co-founder/CEO, about the importance of stretching, what a Stretch*d session entails, her other baby – SLT, and more.

What inspired the founding of Stretch*d?  

AF: We started Stretch*d to address the growing demand for recovery-focused services like stretching.  My fitness industry experience had illuminated both the importance of stretching, as well as the reluctance for people to take time to stretch on their own.  I’d observed the lack of desire to take five minutes to self-stretch, yet the immense enjoyment people got out of being stretched out by a personal trainer.  It became clear to me that there needed to be a recovery-focused place like Stretch*d where people of all lifestyles (active and inactive) could come at any time of the day for any length of time to be stretched out by a professional.

What does a Stretch*d session entail?

AF:  Stretch*d sessions vary in length (typically 25-, 55- or 70-minutes long) and can be full body or area-focused.  Our certified Stretch*rs do all the work in guiding your body through an effective and enjoyable series of stretch*s sure to leave you feeling loose, relaxed and more flexible.

Could you speak to the benefits of assisted stretching and how it differs from stretching on your own?

AF:  Simply put, assisted stretching is sooo much better than self-stretching. It is the ultimate way to get a deep stretch, safely and effectively.  There are many ways someone else can move your body that you can’t necessarily do for yourself, especially when it’s an expert working with your unique abilities, limitations and body issues.  Plus, an assisted stretch is so much more enjoyable and relaxing.

Tell us about Stretch*d’s Hamptons presence this summer.

AF: We are so excited to be in the Hamptons all summer long with at-home stretch*s, pop up events and a dedicated space in the Soulcycle Barn in Bridgehampton for July and August.  You can book a stretch any time, any place or come to us.

Your other baby, SLT is approaching its 10-year anniversary. Tell us about the genesis of the beloved class.

AF: Yes!  I can’t believe SLT is in double digits. I started SLT in 2011 out of a personal desire for a high intensity workout class that delivered the results I was looking for – long, lean muscle tone.  I loved the idea of boutique fitness (studios dedicated to offering the best version of one workout all day long in a ground setting with music and motivating instructors.), but I didn’t like the offerings.  I didn’t think they got clients the right results.  When I was introduced to the Megaformer (the machine we use in our workouts), I was hooked and knew I had to bring it to NYC and beyond.

You call Amagansett home. What are some of your favorite East End spots?

AF: I’m obsessed with Amagansett.  I love that it’s bohemian and beachy, yet chic and the people are awesome.  I have so many spots I love, but here are some of my favorites:

– Warm – My favorite NYC store opened up shop in Amagansett during the pandemic and it’s allowed me to stay stylish out here ever since. No one has better taste than the owner, Winnie.

– Sisi – The new Mediteranean restaurant at EHP (formerly East Hampton Point) is my new go-to dinner and lunch spot. I can’t get enough of their sunsets and hamachi. And the bakery on-site has the best stuffed croissants on earth.

– Amber Waves – Nothing says Amagansett like Amber Waves Farm. I pop by there nearly daily for porridge, produce, ice tea or just running around with my kids.

– The Atlantic Beach Hut – My kids were counting the days until the Beach Hut reopened for summer.  To be able to have such good food and not leave the beach is a true luxury. And who doesn’t love an ice pop or ice cream sandwich on a beach day?!